The full moon is January 10 (1:23 pm), with a penumbral lunar eclipse occurring shortly beforehand at 19˚ of Cancer (1:09 pm). The sun, earth, and moon align imperfectly during a penumbral eclipse. The earth blocks some of the sun’s light from reaching the moon’s surface and covers all or part of the moon with the outer part of its shadow, called the penumbra. Eclipses reveal obstacles. The truths that come to light during this time help to release blockages and redirect the flow. A letting go or an ending that precipitates transformation is shown as the moon forms an opposition to Saturn and Pluto.

The sun, Mercury, Saturn, and Pluto fuse together in Capricorn, facing off with the vulnerable moon in Cancer. Effects of this eclipse may be more keenly felt if a person has planets or important natal points in one of the cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn. Saturn in Capricorn symbolizes structures, rules and tradition. Pluto influences the decay which breaks down these said structures. When Saturn and Pluto join forces, there exists the potential for re-birth after a long demolition process. This could apply to familial, governmental, and cultural structures, as well as “real” structures like homes and buildings.

From January 7 until January 14, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn meet in the same degree (22˚) to form a conjunction. The tightest orb, or most exact conjunction, is on January 12. Some astrologers do not integrate Pluto into practice. Whether or not this is the case, many astrologers look at this conjunction as demarcating an important turning point. These conjunctions occur around every 33 years. The last occurred in Libra in 1982, before that it was in Leo in 1947.

Also, on the evening of the eclipse on January 10, the planet Uranus goes direct after retrograding since mid-August. Uranus, currently in Taurus, symbolizes change and revolution. What ideas that were in the strategizing and planning stages are now ready to break on through to the other side? The direction changes of the outer planets, such as Uranus, can be a catalyst, especially if a person has planets or natal chart points (around 1˚-8˚) in a fixed sign: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius.

To access the energies and changes this full moon brings about, try using some of Eye of Horus’ Full Moon oil. This essential oil blend is designed to help you call down the transformative energies of the full moon. You could also use this oil to augment one of Coventry Creations’ Full Moon candles. This candle, made with a mix of frankincense and jasmine, is all about imagination and manifestation. A great accompaniment for both is Shoyeido’s Kyoto Moon Creativity incense. A mix of cinnamon and clove, this helps to energize the spirit.

For more insight on how all these astrological events might affect you, or want to explore these topics more, come in for a reading with Madeline Youngstrom.

The moon is full in Gemini on December 11(11:12 pm, CT)! Dreams of the ethers get pulled down to earth. A practical and ambitious edge sets the tone. The moon in Gemini helps to verbalize and communicate goals. Surprises and changes in direction are indicated as the full moon sets the stage for the upcoming eclipses.

The spirited and idealistic part of the psyche makes adjustments to translate inner brilliance into the physical or “real” world! Moon in Gemini and sun in Sagittarius explore the outer-limits, yet the journey is tethered closer to earth. What simple steps up the mountain help to reach the peak?

This particular lunation occurs before Yule (Winter Solstice) on December 21 (10:19 pm). A moment at the crossroads of reflection on the past year glimmers with anticipation of the next. Looking back once more before jumping forward gleans the knowledge and experiences from the past to lead into the future.

To help tap into the power of the full moon, try some of Eye of Horus’ Full Moon Oil. This essential oil blend is excellent to enhance any moon magick you might do, but it also helps provide extra energy to achieving and completing goals. To help your reflective periods during this time, light one of Coventry Creations’ Inner Balance candles. This candle is a great aid for meditation, keeping centered, and finding your footing. For a little bit of extra push to taking the next steps in your journey, consider adding Shoyeido’s Hope incense to your daily routine. This blend, part of their Angelic line, is all about expanding awareness and encouraging optimism.

If you’re curious about how this full moon might affect you or want to explore these topics more, come in for a reading with Madeline Youngstrom.